The Origins of the Skateboard: ACondensed Account of Skateboarding's Development
Skateboarding, a popular pastime enjoyed by millions worldwide, has come a long way since its inception in the early 1960s. The invention of the skateboard is attributed to Larry Stevenson, who designed a skateboard similar to a small surfboard in the early 1960s.
Originally, skateboards were used to practice surfing moves on land. They were made out of wooden boxes or boards with roller skate wheels attached to them. However, skateboarding's roots can be traced back further, to California surfers adopting the first skateboards as a means to replicate their surfing maneuvers on land.
The history of skateboarding dates back to the 17th century with the creation of roller skates as a summer alternative to ice skating. The four-wheel board that we know today had its ups and downs, with a decline in popularity between 1965 and 1973.
The resurgence of skateboarding in the 1970s can be attributed to the introduction of urethane wheels and advanced bearing systems. Frank Nasworthy, a pioneer in the skateboard industry, invented a type of polyurethane wheel for skateboards in the late 1960s, improving the ride quality significantly.
One of the most significant moments in skateboarding history was the invention of the ollie, a foundational trick in skateboarding. Alan "Ollie" Gelfand, a skateboarder from the 1970s, is credited with inventing the ollie in 1978. He discovered that by slamming his back foot down on the kicktail while sliding his front foot forward, he could make the board and himself jump into the air without using his hands. The ollie is still considered the most iconic and essential skateboarding move.
Skateboarding has continued to evolve and grow in popularity, with new tricks being invented all the time. Dale Jordan, a member of the Z-Boys, a famous group of skateboarders from the 1970s who were innovators in the sport, is credited with inventing the skateboard trick known as the dale Jordan. Performed by grabbing the board with both hands and flipping it upside down, the dale Jordan has since become a staple of skateboarding tricks.
Today, skateboarding is a popular activity enjoyed by people of all ages around the world. From its humble beginnings as a means to practice surfing moves on land, skateboarding has evolved into a unique and exciting sport with a rich history and a vibrant community. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's never been a better time to get on a skateboard and experience the thrill for yourself.
Skateboarding, originally used to practice surfing moves on land, has its roots traced back to California surfers adopting first skateboards as means to replicate their surfing maneuvers on land in the 17th century. Today, skateboarding is a globally popular activity, with new tricks continuously being invented, such as the dale Jordan, credited to Dale Jordan, a member of the Z-Boys.
